Taking steps to protect water resources President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. approved the proposal of a Water Resource Management Office (WRMO) on February 1, 2023 to manage the sufficient water supply in the country.

The WRMO will be under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and its main functions include formulating and ensuring the implementation of the Integrated Water Management Plan (IWMP), which will integrate various plans of different agencies.

During the multi-sectoral meeting in Malacañang, President Marcos discussed the importance of planning of water management and he stressed the need for a plan that will serve as a roadmap for waste management agencies . He pointed out to adhering to the plan and has to be compulsory.

The President suggested that the WRMO’s first action should be reducing the country’s reliance on groundwater and deep wells, as well as managing surface water supply.

An executive order (EO) will be created to enable the National Water Resources Board (NWRB), MWSS and LWUA and the other water-related agencies of the DENR to have a collaborative mechanism under the WRMO to implement water management programs.

The IWMP, which will serve as the main guiding document for the WRMO, will respond to the current environmental challenges and manage water resources through a concerted government effort engaging various sectors.

The WRMO is also tasked to champion, together with the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office (PLLO), the passage of a law creating an apex body; collaborate closely with all relevant agencies, including local government units (LGUs), private sector, civil society, and the communities; as well as perform other functions under the DENR.

Water is crucial for food security and supporting cities and urban growth. According to report 35.6 percent contribution to the agriculture sector’s Gross Value Added.

The Philippines ranks among the world’s rapidly urbanizing countries, with over 47 percent of its population living in cities in 2021, requiring large water projects, including bulk water supply and sanitation infrastructure.

It also has a significant part in the country’s energy mix, as hydropower represents 7 percent of the total energy production in the country, and its contribution can be increased by as much as 15 percent by 2030. (PIA Gitnang Luzon)